New York (VNA) – With experiences on post-war reconstruction, Viet Nam is ready to take part in Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts bilaterally and in tripartite frameworks, the Vietnamese representative to the UN Security Council said.

Ambassador Le Luong Minh made the remarks while addressing the United Nations Security Council’ open debate on the situation in Afghanistan held on March 12.

He reaffirmed Viet Nam’s support for the efforts of the Government and people of Afghanistan aimed at stabilising and rebuilding the country and stressed that for the specific situation in Afghanistan which has gone through long decades of internal conflict and division, it is Viet Nam’s view that besides measures to enhance security, the need to promote national reconciliation and a political process aimed at ensuring lasting Afghan and regional peace and stability should be duly recognised.

He went on to say, “For all the sufferings they have endured and for their earnest aspiration to move forward, the people of Afghanistan deserve the continued support and assistance of the international community in their cause of national rebuilding, the success of which depends on that against both major enemies - terrorism and drug.”

While underscoring the need to strengthen enforcement activities aiming at eradicating and interdicting illicit drug trafficking and dismantling production facilities, the ambassador called for in-depth and action-oriented study to come up with initiatives in building alternate livelihoods for the Afghan people so that they can enjoy a better life without engaging in drug-related activities.

In the speech, the Vietnamese representative appreciated the efforts of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and supported the recommendation of the Secretary-General to extend the current mandate of UNAMA for a further 12 months.

“We are of the opinion that in the context of the complex security situation still prevailing in Afghanistan, UNAMA should focus on carrying out its present mandate though we agree with Under-Secretary General Gueheno that the mandate can be sharpened,” Ambassador Minh said.